Speed limit to be reduced on section of A697 in Northumberland
Plans for a new 50mph speed limit on a section of the A697 in Northumberland have been given the green light.
The reduced speed limit on the stretch of road between Wooler and Haugh Head has been approved by Northumberland County Council following a public consultation period.
Following feedback, the initial plan was amended and extended by 700m to include Milburn Hall, a series of bends in the road and the access to the Glendale Show field.
Richard McKenzie, the council’s senior programmes officer, reported: “As well as several residential properties there are farms, a petrol station and businesses located in Glendale Business Park.
"This level of development results in frequent turning movements to and from the A697 at side roads and individual properties on a relatively straight section of road currently subject to the national speed limit.
“There have been 28 recorded casualties on this section of the A697, most recently in 2024. Two of these casualties were fatal, while another six were classed as serious. Anecdotal evidence suggests there have also been numerous ‘damage only’ collisions.
“The mean speed at Haugh Head is 50mph, so the proposed speed limit will not interfere with traffic flow. It will, however, assist in reducing the speeds of those who are currently travelling at or above the national speed limit at a location where slower speeds will improve road safety.
“Given the level and type of roadside development, the high number of junctions and accesses and the presence of a footway it is considered that a 50mph speed limit is appropriate on this section.”
On the extension of the 50mph speed limit, Mr McKenzie added: “Wooler Parish Council and the local ward member (Cllr Mark Mather) support the proposal but requested that consideration be given to extending the proposed speed limit approximately 700m further south.
“There have been seven recorded casualties on this additional section, the most recent in 2023. One of these resulted in a fatality, while another three were classed as serious.
"The additional section encompasses a further two residential accesses and includes a series of bends where forward visibility is restricted, requiring a solid white centreline to prevent overtaking. It is considered that extending the proposed 50mph speed limit to include this additional section is appropriate.”